Tuesday, 10 January 2012

riccardo mariano has designed ‘istanbul disaster prevention + education centre’ as an entry for the thyssenkrupp elevator istanbul disaster prevention + education center competition. the complex is a reflection of earth-related phenomena as the surrounding site lifts to form a volcano-like structure. from inside, coloful lights pour upwards, a reflection of man-made energy. although the nearby landscape contains a creek while the north has civil infrastructure, the building is located on a flat topographical surface allowing the low profile center to visually emerge.

entrance

the internal façade consists of drawings which were derived from a typical islamic pattern. based on the hexagonal grid, the system modulates the light, adding color as it passes through its different densities. the built-in light gets stronger as it gets closer to the top, allowing for it to be seen from a distance at night.

structurally, every sector works as an independent entity connected to the next by cracks and joints. this principle is based on the observation of the geometry of fractures in solid material. overall, the building is a fragmented mass made out of simple substructures. outside, the gravel from the surrounding site is continued onto the façade. the material acts as installation for noise and temperature while visually tying the building into the landscape.

poland-based hugon kowalski + adam wiercinski + borys wrzeszcz have designed 'sky street', a submission for the ac-ca international competition to produce a car park tower situated in the dense urban district of hong kong. the proposal intends to create parking spaces which are an extension of the street. the typical city-street complete with traffic lanes, parking spaces, sidewalks and trams were taken and shaped the building form. comprised of two intertwined spirals which seamlessly merge at the top of the structure, the configuration supports collision-free circulation while defining the external appearance with visible contours from the upward outer ramp with a mirrored downward internal ramp. at the midway point, a connection across the center void allows cars to transition and continue driving in the same direction.

positioned within the panorama of skyscrapers adjacent to victoria bay, the spherical profile of the 100 meter tower becomes a new symbol for the area. the egg profile is constructed with concrete and supported with a steel frame. at night, illumination emanating from the curved facade is dictated by the volume of vehicles and trams entering the interior creating the effect of a glowing lantern. in two locations inside, suspended platforms provide multipurpose spaces.

scattered along the sloping terrain of valle de guadalupe, mexico, 'endémico resguardo silvestre' is a cluster of twenty hotel rooms, designed by san diego-based practice gracia studio. positioned within a landscape of vineyards, each ecoloft has panoramic vistas overlooking the scenic valley below. placed upon steel stilts, the 20 square meter cubes hover above the rocky ground, minimally interferingwith the savannah continuing underneath. corten steel was selected to surface the small structures, aging with time to blend intothe rustic hues of the encompassing nature.

with each unit strategically oriented to unobstructed views directed towards the valley, guests may close their personal entry door and feel isolated in nature. attached to each cabin, a personal patio and fireplace allow for comfortable lounging outside.the 99 hectare complex is completed with a nearby winery and pool.